2027: We won’t boycott polls despite INEC’s provocation — ADC
ADC Declares Non-Boycott Stance Ahead of 2027 Elections Despite INEC Concerns
By Davies Iheamnachor, Port Harcourt
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced its decision not to boycott the 2027 general elections, despite expressing concerns over what it calls “provocative” actions by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Chizy Enyi, the State Publicity Secretary of ADC, articulated the party’s position during a news conference in Port Harcourt on Thursday. He emphasized the ADC’s commitment to opposing any alleged illegality that might undermine the political will of the electorate.
“We will not boycott the 2027 polls despite INEC’s provocations,” Enyi stated. “We are fully prepared to resist any form of illegality at the polls to ensure the will of the people is not subverted by INEC, any political grouping, or the Rainbow Coalition.”
Enyi raised specific concerns regarding recent administrative changes within INEC, particularly highlighting the sudden redeployment of key electoral officers across local government areas in Rivers State. He noted that at least seven officials had been transferred out of the state under circumstances that warranted immediate clarification.
“We’ve received troubling reports suggesting that some officers were targeted for their perceived unwillingness to compromise their professional independence,” he remarked.
The ADC spokesperson further criticized what he described as political interference in the deployment process, urging INEC to address claims of its alleged connection to the Rainbow Coalition, particularly concerning electoral operations in sensitive areas like Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
In the wider political context, the ADC cautioned against statements from influential politicians that suggest a predetermined outcome for the upcoming elections. Enyi stressed the importance of protecting the integrity of the recruitment process for ad hoc election workers, warning against partisan influences when compiling lists of personnel for critical polling duties.
“Electoral officers are not the property of any political party, coalition, or government official; they must answer solely to the Constitution and the lawful authority of INEC,” Enyi asserted. “We demand that INEC transparently confirm or deny these allegations, as the people of Rivers State deserve clear answers.”
He concluded by calling on civil society organizations, the media, and election observers to closely monitor the preparations for the election, advocating for full transparency, neutrality, and accountability to ensure a fair electoral process in 2027.
